27817, Chocowinity, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27817, Chocowinity, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.50 percent of the residents in 27817 has some form of health insurance. 52.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.25 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 27817 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,327 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 105 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27817. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,149 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,602 health care providers accessible to residents in 27817, Chocowinity, North Carolina.

The following analysis provides an assessment of breast cancer care resources within ZIP code 27817 (Chocowinity, North Carolina) and evaluates primary care availability in the same area. The focus is on factors critical to patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.

Assessing the landscape of healthcare in a specific geographic region demands an understanding of the fundamental resources available to patients. In Chocowinity, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians is a crucial starting point. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, typically translates to greater accessibility to care, including initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing support for those diagnosed with breast cancer. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential for calculating this ratio accurately. However, simply calculating the ratio is not enough; the distribution of these physicians within the zip code matters. Are they concentrated in one area, or are they spread out, making access easier for all residents, especially those in more rural areas?

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several criteria. Does the practice offer comprehensive preventative care, including routine mammograms and breast cancer screenings? Does the practice have robust patient education programs about breast cancer risk factors and early detection? Are the staff trained in culturally competent care, understanding the unique needs of diverse patient populations? Are there established referral pathways to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, for those who receive a positive diagnosis? These factors, considered in combination, can help distinguish practices that are truly committed to providing excellent breast cancer care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical area to analyze. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Does the primary care practice offer virtual consultations for routine follow-ups or for discussing test results? Are there telemedicine options for mental health services, a critical component of breast cancer care? The availability of telehealth can reduce the burden of travel, saving time and money for patients, and allowing them to receive care from the comfort of their homes.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, but essential, aspect of breast cancer care. The emotional toll of a diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship can be immense. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial. Are there mental health professionals within the primary care practice or nearby? Are there partnerships with local organizations that offer support groups specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors? The existence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care, addressing not just the physical aspects of the disease but also the emotional and psychological well-being of those affected.

Specific data points are needed to formulate a comprehensive assessment. The number of primary care physicians actively practicing within ZIP code 27817 must be identified. The population of the zip code, obtained from the US Census Bureau, is essential for calculating the physician-to-patient ratio. Further research is needed to determine the number of board-certified oncologists and surgeons specializing in breast cancer care within a reasonable radius, as well as the availability of radiation therapy centers. Information from the North Carolina Medical Board will provide details on physician qualifications and specializations.

To identify standout practices, a review of patient testimonials and online reviews is helpful, but not sufficient. A more in-depth analysis should include assessing the practice's website for information on its services, including screening programs, patient education materials, and referral pathways. Direct communication with the practices, such as a survey or interview, can provide further insights into their commitment to breast cancer care.

Assessing telemedicine adoption requires examining the practices' websites and inquiring directly about their telehealth capabilities. Do they offer virtual appointments, and if so, for what types of services? Do they have secure online portals for communication and access to medical records? Are they equipped to handle the technical aspects of telemedicine, such as video conferencing and secure data transmission?

Evaluating mental health resources necessitates identifying local mental health providers and support groups. This information can be found through online searches, referrals from primary care physicians, and local community organizations. It is also important to determine if the primary care practices have established partnerships with mental health professionals to facilitate referrals and coordinate care.

The analysis will also consider the impact of healthcare disparities. Are there specific programs or initiatives aimed at addressing the needs of underserved populations, such as those with limited financial resources or from minority groups? Addressing healthcare disparities is crucial to ensure that all residents of Chocowinity have equal access to quality breast cancer care.

Ultimately, a comprehensive breast cancer care analysis for ZIP code 27817 requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the quality of primary care practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear and accurate picture of the resources available to patients, highlighting areas of strength and identifying areas where improvements are needed.

For a visual representation of this data, including maps of physician locations, demographics, and access to resources, explore CartoChrome maps.